Merchandise Mart in Chicago

The largest commercial office building in the World, with over 4.1 million sq. ft. of permanent and temporary showrooms, a bank, a U.S. Post Office, an “EL” train stop, currency exchange, a Food Court and retail shops, the Chicago Merchandise Mart produces a trade shows, conferences, and special events. A private exhibit center, the Mart is home to the world’s largest Contract Furnishing Show – Neocon – the country’s largest Casual Furniture Market, Chicago Antiques Fair, the Chicago Design Show, two Gift and Home Markets, and 10 apparel shows every year. Call (312) 527-5181 or visit www.merchandisemart.com
Opened on May 5, 1930 by Marshall Field & Company, the Merchandise Mart realized Marshall Field’s dream of a single wholesale center for the entire nation. When Joseph P. Kennedy returned to the United States from his position as Ambassador to Great Britain, he saw something in what Field was trying to accomplish and he purchased the Mart in 1945. The Merchandise Mart was owned and managed by the Kennedy family interests for more than 50 years.